Port 2 commission takes care of business

Commissioners of Wahkiakum Port District 2 on Tuesday took care of some housekeeping matters and met in executive session to discuss possible sale or acquisition of real estate.

Commissioners approved a recommendation from Manager Jeff Smith to contract with Champs Tree Service for removal of approximately 40 alder and cottonwood trees at Skamokawa Vista Park. The work will cost about $6,400.

Smith said the trees were spread around the park and were leaning badly or posed some other concern. Small pieces will be chipped, and large pieces of alder will be saved for park firewood sales.

In other business, commissioners approved resolutions updating their contract with the Skamokawa Sewer and Water District and their wage compensation policy.

The sewer and water district leases a large portion of Vista Park's playfield for use as a drainfield. Rates haven't been increased for many years, staff said, and the new resolution will set up a 20-year payment schedule. Monthly rental will increase from $450 to $520 per month.

Attorney Tim Hanigan said the resolution concering compensation was essentially a housekeeping measure, updating language such as the minimum wage.

Commissioners Brian O'Connor, Austin Burkhalter and Allen Bennett ended their meeting with an executive session to consider possible sale or acquisition of real estate but took no action.